The Williams F1 Team have confirmed that development driver Susie Wolff will be continuing her role with the Formula One team during the 2013 season.

Susie joined the Williams F1 Team in April 2012 and has played a valuable role in helping to develop the Williams-Renault FW34 and FW35.

Her level of involvement will increase during the 2013 season, with an increased programme in the team’s simulator combined with a greater level of in-car testing.

Wolff, nee Stoddart, will also be the first to get behind the wheel of the FW35 when she drives the car at the private Idiada test circuit near Barcelona next month, and will do the majority of aerodynamic testing this season.

Prior to joining the Williams F1 Team Susie spent seven seasons driving in DTM and was twice nominated for the prestigious BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award.

Susie Wolff"I really enjoy my time working with Williams and feel very much at home here. Last year was a valuable experience and I certainly feel that I’ve developed a lot as a driver. Increasing my role this year will further this progression and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the FW35 for the first time next month. I’m showing that women can play a role at the top level of motorsport and would like to thank Sir Frank Williams and the whole of the technical team for the trust they continue to show in me."

Mike Coughlan - Technical Director"Susie has proved herself to be a valuable addition to our driver roster and her feedback during simulator sessions is second to none. As a result we will be stepping up her role this year and I’m looking forward to the progress we can make with Susie’s input in conjunction with that of Pastor and Valtteri."